How Long Do Crowns and Veneers Last?

You are considering a crown or veneers. You want that brilliant smile, but you aren’t sure how long this new look will last. What can you expect?

“Insurance companies tell you that crowns’ and veneers’ life span is five years. But if you take care of them properly, they can last a lot longer, “ says Dr. Carol Ford from her Phoenix dental office.

The website Medicinenet.com put the lifespan of a crown “. . . between five and 15 years.” The website adds that the “ lifespan of a crown depends on the amount of “wear and tear” the crown is exposed to, how well you follow good oral hygiene practices, and your personal mouth-related habits. . . “

Dr. Ford adds, “you can add life to your crown and veneers by avoiding chewing ice, using your teeth as tools to open bottles or taped packaging, and chewing your fingernails. Those habits pit the strength of materials with good tensile strength against your teeth, crowned or not, and your teeth will lose. If not this time, then certainly eventually,” Dr. Ford says.

Any behavior that rocks the crown on the remaining tooth or a tooth in the bone is not a good action

Crowns and veneers are attached to an existing tooth structure. If the root is damaged, or the bone recedes, the crown may need to be replaced to create a good fit again.

As people age, their teeth turn darker. The crown and veneer may no longer match the other teeth in the mouth. Yes, they can be bleached, but if a color change creates too uneven a look, it’s time for a new crown or veneer.

Similarly, if the gums recedes too far from the tooth, the veneer will be fully exposed, and possibly show the base of the tooth. In that case, the veneer can be carefully removed, new impressions made, and a new veneer put on the tooth.

Considering how often you smile, and the power of a youthful smile, it’s a good idea to discuss updating your smile with your dentist.